While the Stanford rape case has served to further highlight the rape culture that pervades American campus universities, a recent survey from Drinkaware has revealed that campus sexual assault is just as big an issue in the UK.

After speaking with over 2,000 students across the UK, three quarters of those aged 18-24 admitted to having experienced one or more of the following on a night out over a 12 month period: inappropriate sexual touching, comments or abuse; vomiting; having an accident; a regrettable sexual encounter or experiencing uncertainty around one; passing out in public; involvement in a fight, or needing hospitalisation.

More worryingly, over half of 18-24 year-old female students confirmed that they had experienced sexual harassment (inappropriate touching, comments or abuse) on nights out. Among these women, 51% confirmed this is something they experience most or every time they go out, and only one in seven were surprised to be at the receiving end of it.

It’s not just women, almost one in seven (15%) male students experience inappropriate or unwanted sexual comments and touching on a night out.

To support young people Drinkaware have now introduced a team of specially trained staff, Drinkaware Crew, in four university towns across the country. By the end of the year, the scheme will be rolled out across the UK.

The aim is to reduce negative experiences related to drunkenness – including anti-social behaviour and sexual harassment. The team will work in bars and clubs to promote a positive social atmosphere, support those who might be vulnerable as a result of drinking too much, and ensure young people get home safely.

They have also launched a campaign which aims to stop people using alcohol as an excuse in these situations, titled You wouldn’t sober, you shouldn’t drunk.

You can join the conversation on Twitter at #GropeFreeNights.

If you or someone you know needs support relating to sexual assault or rape, you can visit Rape Crisis or Victim Support.

Find out more about Yana Mazurkevich's work here.

Images: Facebook

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